PA CareerLink at Pottsville partners with the Pennsylvania Office of Vocational Rehabilitation (OVR), which provides vocational rehabilitation services to help people with disabilities prepare for, obtain or maintain employment. OVR provides services to eligible individuals with disabilities, both directly and through a network of approved vendors. Services are provided on an individualized basis. The OVR counselor, during face-to-face interviews, assists customers in selecting their choice of vocational goals, services and service providers. An Individualized Plan for Employment (IPE) is developed, outlining a vocational objective, services, providers and responsibilities. Certain services are subject to a Financial Needs Test (FNT) and may require financial participation by the customer. Counseling and guidance, diagnostic services, assessments, information and referral, job development and placement, and personal services such as readers or sign language interpreters are provided at no cost to the individual. Also, by law OVR customers receiving Social Security benefits for their disability (SSI, SSDI) are exempt from OVR’s Financial Needs Test.

Additionally, the Supported Employment Program provides job coaching and help in securing and retaining employment for those with developmental disabilities, including those who may be on the autism spectrum. After a personal assessment, staff assist in finding jobs that match the person’s interests and abilities. The program includes job assessment and training for high school students preparing to leave the school system.

Tax breaks are available for hiring people with disabilities and for making improvements to facilities that improve accessiblility. Many accessibility changes also make it easier for employees and customers with disabilities to do their job or conduct business.